Having assumed the leadership of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) for a second stint, Mike Nesbitt, has made a call to his peers to avoid airing the party’s internal disputes in the public eye. The announcement came after the closure of the nomination process for the vacant leadership position on Friday; a process in which Mr Nesbitt was the only candidate. On being asked about the endorsement of his predecessor, Doug Beattie, he chose to remain silent.
Despite this, the former media personality appeared extremely convinced that he has the approval of all or at least, most of the UUP’s elected officials. Doug Beattie had resigned as leader unexpectedly earlier this month. He cited persistent disagreements with the party officers and a perceived lack of influence over the party’s future direction as the reasons for his departure.
With only Mr Nesbitt expressing interest in the leadership role, the UUP confirmed his appointment on Friday. Subject to the party’s ratification on 14th September, Mike Nesbitt MLA, the current representative for Strangford, is now regarded as the party leader. This marks his second time in the role, having led the UUP from 2012 to 2017, a first in the party’s history. In May he took over from his party counterpart, Robin Swan, to become the Stormont Minister for Health.
When questioned about his return to leadership, Mike Nesbitt expressed profound satisfaction and reiterated his commitment to the health portfolio. Unlike his first term in 2012, he now has a clear understanding of the responsibilities and challenges that come with the role. Mr Nesbitt is confident of serving the UUP, its voters and the larger populace of Northern Ireland effectively. He also expressed his intention of providing a “more relaxed” outlook for the UUP.
“I’m choosing to continue the progressive outreach started by Doug, believing that in a way, he was picking up the mantle I carried from 2012 to 2017,” shared Mr Nesbitt with the press.
“It’s my aim to present a unionist party to the populace that’s comfortable in its own skin, confident and more inclusive, and that above all, reaches out.”
[Mike Nesbitt observed as likely to fill the gap left by Doug Beattie as the chief of Ulster Unionist Party]
Mr Nesbitt’s ascension to the role of UUP leader came hot on the heels of SDLP leader Colum Eastwood’s resignation.
When queried about whether Mr Beattie had thrown his weight behind him, Mr Nesbitt brought up Mr Eastwood’s endorsement of SDLP MP Claire Hanna as his possible successor. He noted the UUP’s long history of letting the outgoing leader’s preferences and influences have no sway over the party’s choice of the succeeding leader.
Mr Nesbitt rebuffed suggestions of the UUP being a party at odds with itself.
“However, I acknowledge that we may have perpetuated the narrative ourselves by handling our disputes in full public view,” he conceded. He hinted at his preference for letting differences take a back seat, allowing for a calm reflection period before the union tackles matters anew when the Assembly reconvenes next week.
– Further reporting: PA